WOW: Aleksandr Usyk threw almost 1000 PUNCHES in WBSS triumph

Aleksandr Usyk’s superior work-rate was the key to a stunning victory over unified world champion Murat Gassiev in Moscow.

Usyk managed to nullify Gassiev’s dangerous power by not allowing his opponent to get set and constantly picked him off as ‘Iron’ came forward.

Throwing almost 1000 punches, according to CompuBox’s official stats for the World Boxing Super Series Final, Usyk proved without a shadow of a doubt that he is the best cruiserweight in the world by some margin.

After the encounter, Usyk stated he already had a special place for the coveted Muhammad Ali Trophy in his home.

“Moscow, 2018. Bang! Daddy’s in the building,” said an ecstatic Usyk after the fight.

The judges scored the fight – 120-108, 119-109 and 119-109 for Usyk, who happens to share the same birthday, Jan. 17, with Ali.

“To win all four belts and the Muhammad Ali Trophy is a dream coming true. It is no secret that Muhammad Ali is my biggest idol so this is a great honour,” said Usyk after the fight.

“I’m not a superstar, stars are in the sky. Just an ordinary guy, who is doing something well.

“My team made me look like I looked in the ring. This is our victory. I will keep this trophy at a special place in my home because my beloved wife, Katarina, has already prepared a special place for it.”

Gassiev was humble in defeat, knowing he’d lost to the better fighter on the night.

“I had the best opponent in my professional career,” said Gassiev.

“I did my best, but today it was Aleksandr’s day. Aleksandr was the favorite, and he proved it. This was a very good experience for me.”

With Usyk contemplating a move up to heavyweight, Gassiev could well have the chance to rule again. although it’s not unfathomable that both men could head north to the heavyweight division after their impressive WBSS exploits.